Portugal: Adverse weather ongoing across Madeira Jan. 16

Severe weather is ongoing across Madeira Jan. 16. A storm system named Irene is impacting the islands, with heavy rainfall and winds gusting up to 120 kph (75 mph) expected. Strong winds will generate rough seas, with waves as high as 5.5 meters (18 feet) possible in coastal areas. The Portuguese Institute of Meteorology (IPMA) has issued orange heavy rainfall and strong wind warnings for southern coastal and interior mountainous parts of Madeira early Jan. 16 and yellow heavy rainfall and strong wind warnings across the rest of the archipelago. Orange rough sea warnings are in place for southern coastal areas and yellow rough sea warnings for Porto Santo Island. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

At least ten flights have been canceled at Madeira International Airport (FNC) since Jan. 15 due to severe weather and several others have been delayed. Further flight disruptions are likely through at least Jan. 16; airport officials have advised passengers to confirm the status of their flights before going to the airport. Authorities have reported several fallen trees across Madeira but no major damage as of early Jan. 16.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.